Kempski notes that the Raiders not only have the oldest roster as ranked by average age, but the franchise has held that status every year since 2012. General manager Reggie McKenzie inherited an aging team from late owner Al Davis and has been unable to refresh his roster through the draft, as noted by the Associated Press’ Josh Dubow.

That’s an incredible stat. And doesn’t bode well for McKenzie’s judgment in selecting players with the NFL draft clock ticking. He’s had more success in plucking undrafted players from the free agent ranks, but that can only get you so far.

The Raiders just traded one of McKenzie’s three best selections, DE Khalil Mack, to the Bears. The former NFL defensive player of the year is in the midst of his prime, and Oakland’s contract offer came up short, per the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Michael Gehlken.

Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie on Khalil Mack discussions: "We presented him with an offer. We got the counter back and talked about it with (Joel Segal). What they were demanding, it just wasn't going to work." Declined comment on how counter compared to deal Bears gave Mack today.

Quarterback Derek Carr received his mega-deal, and WR Amari Cooper’s performance in 2018 will help decide his future on the Raiders.

McKenzie, or whoever will be making Oakland’s selections in the years to come, has to start hitting more in the draft. Otherwise, the team will have to continue to load up on free agents and won’t be nearly as financially flexible as if the roster was stocked with young, inexpensive talent.

Email

Like this article?

Sign up for the Raiders Wire email newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning

An error has occured

Please re-enter your email address.

Thanks for signing up!

You'll now receive the top Raiders Wire stories each day directly in your inbox.